April 11 marked the first of hopefully many Muskie Success Extravaganzas. The success and engagement team, LC-CAB and Jim Bajczek, director of residence life, put many hours into planning the event. The intent of the extravaganza was to celebrate the hard work of all Lakeland students.

The event was a total success; everyone who attended enjoyed the heart-racing activities. From a stunt jump to bubble soccer, both students and faculty experienced an unforgettable day and night. There was only one factor missing from the equation: Where were all the students?

What is baffling is the lack of students that attended throughout the entire day. At most we expected every student to at least show up for the free food that was being offered. Many students showed for an hour, rode each ride once and then simply left. Why not stay and enjoy what is being offered?

This trend continues throughout Lakeland events. Unless students are forced to be there, they will sit in their dorms and complain about nothing going on. Students aim for the minimum. Is it ‘uncool’ to participate in events on campus? If so, then what would make a ‘cool’ event?

At the Muskie Tank, which a Core III class hosted, one of the most popular complaints was to have more events on campus. That is downright ridiculous. There is an event on campus almost every night. Students simply need to keep their ears open and read their emails. Resident assistants host programs monthly, clubs host events and convocations can keep a person busy all week.

Students need to take responsibility into their own hands if they are bored. If a student thinks that they have an idea for an event, share the event with a success coach or a faculty member. Also, simply look at the flyers hanging around campus, and you will find a plethora of events to attend.

These years are what you make it. The Lakeland faculty is creating events that they believe students will attend—they are even asking student opinions—but there is only so much they can do. They cannot force students to come. That part is on you. Will you come or sit in your dorm?